Otitis is a common ailment in children, especially those of preschool age. It is characterized by inflammation of the middle ear, the space behind the eardrum. It can cause severe pain, fever and hearing problems. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatment and home remedies for relieving otitis in children.
Why do children get sick with otitis?
The anatomical structure of the ear in children favors the development of infections. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, is shorter and more horizontal in them than in adults. This makes it easier for bacteria and viruses from the nose and throat to enter the middle ear.
The most common causes of otitis include:
- Viral infections: colds, flu, measles
- Bacterial infections: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis
- Allergies: allergic rhinitis, causing swelling of the nasal mucosa and Eustachian tube
- Environmental factors: air pollution, tobacco smoke, staying in a nursery or kindergarten
Symptoms of otitis in a child
Otitis can manifest itself differently depending on the age of the child and the severity of the infection. The most common symptoms are:
- Severe ear pain: worsening at night and while lying down
- Fever: often high, above 38°C
- Irritability, crying: especially in infants and young children
- Sleep problems: ear pain makes it difficult to fall asleep
- Loss of appetite: pain and discomfort make eating difficult
- Ear leakage: pus or serous fluid, indicating rupture of the eardrum
- Hearing problems: feeling of ear congestion, hearing weakness
When to go to the doctor?
Always consult a doctor if you suspect a child has otitis. This is especially important in the case of:
- Infants under 6 months of age
- Severe ear pain
- High fever
- Ear leakage
- Symptoms lasting more than 2-3 days
- Deterioration of the child’s general condition
Diagnosis and treatment of otitis
The doctor will diagnose otitis based on an otoscopic examination, which allows you to see the eardrum and assess the condition of the middle ear.
Treatment of otitis depends on the cause and severity of the infection. In most cases, it is used:
- Analgesics and antipyretics: paracetamol, ibuprofen
- Ear drops: may contain painkillers, anti-inflammatory substances or antibiotics
- Oral antibiotics: used for bacterial infections, severe disease or lack of improvement after symptomatic treatment
Home remedies for otitis
In addition to the treatment prescribed by your doctor, you can use home remedies to relieve pain and speed up recovery:
- Warm compresses: applying a warm compress to the affected ear
- Humidify the air: use a humidifier or saline inhalation
- Avoiding tobacco smoke and air pollution
- Feeding plenty of fluids
- Rest
- Positioning the child with the head elevated
Complications of otitis
Untreated otitis can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Hearing loss: chronic otitis can damage the eardrum and ossicles
- Meningitis: the infection can spread to the brain and meninges
- Mastoiditis: inflammation of the mastoid bone, located behind the ear
- Abscess: spread of infection to tissues surrounding the ear
Prevention of otitis
To reduce the risk of otitis in your child, it is worth:
- Avoid contact with sick people
- Wash your hands regularly
- Vaccinate your child against pneumococcus and Haemophilus influenzae type b
- Breastfeeding: breast milk contains antibodies that protect against infections
- Avoiding tobacco smoke
- Allergy treatment
Summary
Otitis is a common ailment in children that can cause severe pain and discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment can avoid complications and speed up recovery. Remember to always consult a doctor if you suspect otitis in your child.
